2 Years Training

Going from being THIS guy

To being THIS guy

They say time flies when you're having fun, and I've been having some fun. 2 years ago today I stepped onto the mat @ Easton Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for the first time. It's been an interesting journey thus far. I've learned a lot about myself, and the benefits of learning and practicing a martial art.
Some things that have changed noticably, for instance my weight- I was 210lbs on my first day on the mat. This morning I weighed in at 175lbs. It is interesting to walk around sans the weight of 2 bowling balls. I'm pretty happy to have gotten much leaner while getting stronger. This has also contributed to my activities. After 2 years in BJJ my "life" is hardly recognizable. I used to go out to the bar at least once a week and drink beer and eat chicken wings. Now I'm vegetarian, and drink about a 6 pack a month. I couldn't run a single lap around a highschool track back then. Last weekend I ran 14 miles, and tackled 29 obstacles at a Tough Mudder (my 2nd TM event). I didn't just jog it either- I kept pace with a couple Marines and kicked some ass.  Had I never made that decision to step onto the mat, none of this would have happened. I had to believe I could do it, and that confidence is one of the many things that BJJ has given to me.


Practicing BJJ may be training to fight, but it is also training to think. How to solve problems, and how to train your instincts. There are a lot of metaphors for life that can be drawn from BJJ- understanding the problem, applying the solution, being flexible and adaptable to the challenges you are confronted with, thinking through the problem before reacting. Understanding risk and consequence. This is all part of the "mental game" that is the Gentle Art.

BJJ has lead to a lot of friendships as well. I recall when I lived in Chicago and I felt lost in the crowd. I couldn't figure out a way to make new friends outside of work because my interests were so narrow. BJJ has enriched my life with a common interest that has allowed me to meet a wide variety of great people. It's a friendship built on mutual respect and I'm very grateful for that.

So where do I go from here?  I've decided not to set a final destination. I think the best plan is to just keep going, wherever this journey takes me will be the best place with the best result. In the mean time I'll continue to focus on my training, expand my skill set, and I'll keep looking for opportunities to enrich my life even further. Thanks for reading.